Theatre Returns to LG In Form of ‘Blithe Spirit’
The folks at Fayette County Community Theatre are at it again. After having to cancel half of their 2020 season due to the pandemic, they have reconvened to produce “Blithe Spirit,” a comedy by Noel Coward.
First performed in 1941, the play centers around a socialite and author named Charles Condomine who is suffering from writer’s block while working on a new novel about a con artist posing as a medium. In the interest of research, he arranges a séance with his wife and friends. A famous medium, Madame Arcati, joins the group and delivers more than expected when she manifests the spirit of Charles’ late wife, Elvira. Hilarity ensues as Elvira taunts his living wife, Ruth, and schemes to keep Charles to herself for all eternity.
“It is so good to be back at it,” says director Melissa Weltner. “It felt like an eternity away from the theatre and our little family. This has become a huge part of our lives and we all missed it very much.”
Though we are still in the middle of the pandemic, FCCT has come up with some creative ways to stay safe and follow CDC guidelines. First, they’ve moved to one of the city’s best kept secrets: the Sanford Schmid Amphitheater at the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center. “This venue is underutilized and we couldn’t be happier to give it the exposure it so deserves,” said Weltner. The venue is outdoors and quite large allowing for proper social distancing. Though the venue can seat 400, FCCT has capped tickets to 150 per night. The normal VIP event will not happen to abide by guidelines. Masks are required until audience members are seated and groups will be seated apart from others.
The cast of seven is comprised of some familiar faces and some new. Charles is played by newcomer Andy Johnson. “Charles is my first leading role since Tevya in high school. I’m enjoying the challenge of memorizing Sir Noel Coward’s comedy and keeping my edge sharp,” remarked Johnson.
Ruth is played by Staci Ulrich of Weimar. “I often get cast in roles that require a bit of attitude. Ruth is no exception and navigating her balance between proper and bratty has been a fun challenge,” said Ulrich.
Another new face in the bunch is Ashley Dalhart, an Oldenburg resident who has studied acting at Houston’s renowned High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and Received a BFA in Musical Theatre from The College of Santa Fe in New Mexico. She remarked, “I’m so very excited to be playing the role of Elvira! The biggest challenge is brushing off the cobwebs in this acting brain. I have so missed the stage and this troupe is the best at helping me renew my love of it.”
Sarah Greene of Columbus is also new to the troupe, at least on stage. She takes on the role of Mrs. Bradman. “It’s been a while since I’ve performed on stage. It’s so rewarding to see it all come together with the help of all these amazing people.”
Blake Harbers of West Point has performed with the theater before and will play Dr. Bradman. He was the first to request FCCT add this play to the season. He recalls, “Blithe Spirit is what first introduced me to the theater. I couldn’t be happier to be a part of the production that brought this play to Fayette County for all to enjoy.”
Heather Barthelme, also of West Point, plays Madame Arcati this time around. She said,
“This play is so fun. It’s full of big characters running and falling and being British. This new venue has been such a gift during these crazy times.”
Jessica Tippie of Giddings plays Edith, the maid. “The biggest challenge has been maintaining my cockney accent but it’s worth the work! The witty humor and fun accents are my favorite part of the show.”
Show times are 7 p.m. November 13 and 14, 3 p.m. on the 15th. Tickets are available online at faycotheatre.com or at the door prior to performances. Prices are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for students. It is sure to be a hilarious performance in addition to being a safe experience for all.
“In a time of so many cancellations and postponements, it’s fabulous to be able to bring this production to the county we love to call home. We can’t wait to make you laugh again,” said Weltner.